CN103119728A

CN103119728A - Solar Array Configuration

Info

Publication number: CN103119728A
Application number: CN2011800316719A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 托徳·罗伯茨
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-04-26
Filing date: 2011-04-26
Publication date: 2013-05-22
Also published as: EP2564427A1; US20110290306A1; WO2011139660A1; CA2797516A1

Abstract

A photovoltaic (PV) array capable of being mounted as a unit to a support structure is provided. A solar panel laminate is also provided that can be plugged into electrical connectors of adjacent laminates by pressing the electrical connectors together or mounting them in close proximity to each other. In addition, a PV array is provided that includes an array frame that includes a plurality of cross members preformed to mate with a frame of the solar panel laminate. A support structure for a PV array is also provided that includes a support structure that includes ballast. A PV power plant is also provided, as well as systems and methods for optimizing power output from a PV array.

Description

The solar array configuration

The cross reference of related application

The application requires priority and the rights and interests of the U.S. Provisional Application sequence number 61/327,930 of submission on April 26th, 2010; It is by integrally incorporated herein by reference.

Background technology

The application's relate generally to solar energy collecting.More specifically, provide the configuration of solar panels and solar array, it promotes the structure and installment of solar power plant when realizing efficient energy conversion.

General by on the rigid mesh trellis framework of a part that forms fixing or pivotal support structure once a ground a plurality of solar panels laminate (laminate) (also referred to as solar panels or module) made up construct photovoltaic (PV) array.Laminate on framework requires and is electrically connected in parallel or in series according to operator's power stage.

In the process of present practice, realize the solar panels laminate is arranged on the appropriate position in two parts process, thus, extruded aluminum framework interference fit around factory place will be centered around whole laminate or be attached to the flaggy casting die, and then at the scene this framework is attached to the independent and additional installation system that is attached to ground building or the structure of ground (or be attached to again).

In history, it is quite little that solar power system has been installed, and seldom surpasses approximately 10kW.Now, typical flaggy casting die design has each approximately 200W or above rated capacity, so the 10kW system requirements is completed approximately 50 flaggy casting dies.Yet, the interest of solar power generation has been the index expansion in the past between decade, and the larger practical scale device over 15MW is becoming more common aspect rated capacity.Be expected at towards this trend of fairly large project and will continue and accelerate future.In order to complete the canonical system of the rated capacity with 15MW, required to surpass 75000 flaggy casting dies (and each must be carried individually and install at the scene) in 2009.Reducing the system that the required work of this type of laminate array is installed will expect.The invention provides this type systematic and make the installation of PV array and use more simply and other system more efficiently.

Summary of the invention

PV array, supporting construction, PV power generation factory are provided in this article and have can be used for the efficient structure of PV system and the system of use.

In certain embodiments, provide the PV array.This PV array comprises array architecture and is coupled to a plurality of electric coupling solar panels laminate of this array architecture.In these embodiments, each solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells; Earthing device; Insulating lid and backing (backing); And electric connector.The PV array of these embodiment can be installed on supporting construction as the unit and produce electricity with time on the photovoltaic array of installing at solar radiation.

The solar panels laminate also is provided.This solar energy layer casting die comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells; Earthing device; Insulating lid and backing; And electric connector.In these embodiments, can the solar panels laminate be electrically coupled to the adjacent layer casting die by the electric connector of giving prominence to from laminate or the framework that limits the laminate scope, making can be by forcing together electric connector or the electric connector plug of its mutual close proximity ground installation with laminate being inserted in the electric connector of adjacent layer casting die.

In addition, provide the photovoltaic PV array that comprises array architecture and be coupled to a plurality of electric coupling solar panels laminate of array architecture.Each solar panels laminate in array comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells; Earthing device; Insulating lid and backing; And electric connector.In these embodiments, each solar panels laminate also comprises the framework that limits the laminate scope, and wherein, this framework comprises the first axle and the second axle.This array architecture comprises a plurality of cross members, and wherein, each cross member is engaged to the framework more than a laminate.This cross member is prefabricated into the framework coupling with the solar panels laminate, makes this laminate design in advance at one, can repeat to be coupled to cross member on orientation, but wherein has the repetition interval of design in advance between the solar panels laminate.

In addition, provide the supporting construction that is used for the PV array.This supporting construction comprises the first supporting member of perpendicular and the second supporting member of perpendicular, wherein, each in the first supporting member and the second supporting member comprises top and bottom, and this lower end is coupled to substrate and this substrate is arranged at ground, is attached to ground or buries in ground, floor or construction element.This supporting construction also comprises the Rotatable base of crossing over the first vertical support and the second vertical support, wherein, described Rotatable base is coupled to the clutch shaft bearing (bearing) of the upper end that is positioned at the first supporting member and is positioned at the second bearing of the upper end of the second supporting member.This Rotatable base can be coupled to PV array or a plurality of solar panels laminate, and described PV array is coupled to Rotatable base by rectangular tube or the piece that is arranged on Rotatable base.

The supporting construction that is used for the PV array also is provided.This supporting construction comprises the first supporting member of perpendicular, and it comprises the first upper end and the first lower end, and this lower end is coupled to the first substrate.In these embodiments, the substrate of supporting member comprises the first ballast (ballast).

In additional embodiment, provide PV power generation factory.This power plant comprises a plurality of any above-mentioned supporting constructions and is arranged at PV array on the Rotatable base of each supporting construction.In the power plant, the substrate of described a plurality of supporting constructions is anchored, stable or bury wherein that the PV array is exposed in the zone of daylight with ballast.

Provide in addition a kind of be used to making from the optimized system of the power stage of PV array, wherein, the PV array is installed on supporting construction and comprises at least one solar panels laminate.In these systems, described solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells; Earthing device, insulating lid and backing; And electric connector, and described supporting construction comprises the first supporting member of perpendicular, and it comprises the first upper end and the first lower end, and this lower end is coupled to the first substrate; And be used for device that PV is pivoted, wherein, this axle is substantially horizontal axle or is in and becomes selected inclination angle with horizontal line.This system comprise for make the PV array around axle rotation less than 5 degree before and measure afterwards the device of the power stage of PV array; Be used for determining make the PV array around the axle rotation less than the power stage of the PV array before or after 5 degree larger device whether; And be used for making the PV array rotation to the device of the position that wherein power stage is larger.

A kind of optimized method of power stage that makes from photovoltaic (PV) array also is provided, and wherein, the PV array is installed on supporting construction and comprises at least one solar panels laminate.This solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells; Earthing device; Insulating lid and backing; Electric connector; And be used for measurement from the device of the power stage of array, and this supporting construction comprises: the first supporting member of perpendicular, and it comprises the first upper end and the first lower end, this lower end is coupled to the first substrate; And be used for making PV around the device of axle rotation, wherein, this axle is substantially horizontal axle or becomes selected inclination angle with horizontal line.The method is included in and makes the PV array measure before and afterwards the power stage of PV array around the axle rotation less than 5 degree; Determine make the PV array whether larger less than the power stage of the PV array before or after 5 degree around the axle rotation; And make the PV array rotation to the larger position of power stage wherein.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the perspective view according to the PV array of illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 2 is the profile that is arranged at the PV array on supporting construction according to illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 3 is the perspective view that is arranged at the PV array on supporting construction according to illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 4 is the side perspective view that is arranged at the PV array on supporting construction according to illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 5 is the front perspective view that is arranged at two PV arrays on supporting construction according to illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 6 is the end perspective view that is arranged at three PV arrays on supporting construction according to illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 7 is the perspective view according to the part that is arranged at the PV array on supporting construction of illustrative embodiment.

Fig. 8 is the flow chart according to the method for illustrative embodiment.

Embodiment

The term that uses in this article only is used for describing specific embodiment and being not intended to limit the present invention.As using in this article, singulative " ", " one " and " being somebody's turn to do " intention also comprise plural form, unless context clearly indicates in addition.In addition, as institute's reference in this article, module is defined as for hardware, software and/or its combination of carrying out specific function.Software is defined as including but not limited to the computer executable instructions of object code, assembly code and machine code.Hardware can include but not limited to one or more processor/microprocessors, electronic circuit and other physical units.It will also be understood that when using in this specification and/or claim, term " comprises " and/or specifies " comprising " existence of described feature, integer, step, operation, element and/or parts, but does not get rid of existence or the interpolation of one or more other features, integer, step, operation, element, parts and/or its group.

Standardization is provided in this article, is easy to install and has allowed wherein that the PV array before be not photovoltaic (PV) laminate, array, supporting construction and the power plant of the installation of option or efficient option.

As using in this article, be the one group of solar cell that is joined together and is laminated in plate also referred to as the PV laminate of solar panels or solar energy module, have the electrical lead (+and-) of exposure.The current 6 inches solar cells of standard that utilize of common PV laminate configuration, its by with 6 bond pads of 10 group together, assemble and be used industrial laminated secret and be enclosed in glass and have between the Tedlar backing of 2 ethylene-vinyl alcohols (EVA) film, have bypass diode between 6 groups of 10 group in terminal box (junction box), two lead-in wires (+with-) occur from described terminal box.This quasi-representative PV laminate have the 200W capacity or more than.Yet the PV laminate that here provides is not confined to any customized configuration or electricity output not narrowly, but can contain any configuration as known in the art.

As using in this article, the PV array is a plurality of PV laminate that are joined together and are arranged on supporting construction.PV laminate in array is electrically coupled usually, makes this array have an electricity output.The PV array can comprise the laminate of any number, comprises 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16 or more multi-layered casting die.

As discussing in above-mentioned background technology trifle, current PV array is generally by constructing to the last ground installation solar panels laminate of supporting construction at the scene.In the situation that many PV arrays have been installed, such as in 15 MW solar power generation factory and office, the labour cost of mounting layer casting die is significant.For head it off, the PV array here is provided, wherein, in laminate some has been installed on framework at least, make can with framework as a cellular installation on supporting construction.This system provides the remarkable saving of work aspect because needn't be configured at the scene the framework of each laminate, and in will laminate some is arranged on framework individually at least.Therefore, in certain embodiments, provide the PV array.This PV array comprises array architecture and is coupled to a plurality of electric coupling solar panels laminate of this array architecture.In these embodiments, each solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells, earthing device, insulating lid and backing and electric connector.The PV array of these embodiment can produce electricity with time on the photovoltaic array of installing at solar radiation on the supporting construction as a cellular installation.

Although be understood that the PV array that whole fill-ins of laminate (for example 12 laminate) in many cases are installed on framework is so heavy, make this type of array of lifting will require jumbo, but whole fill-ins, the laminate (for example two, three, four or five) that minimal amount is installed simultaneously by frame construction being become the supporting layer casting die, then this element is installed on supporting construction, can avoids the use of this kind equipment.Then the remainder of laminate can be installed on framework, wherein this framework is in place on supporting construction.In certain embodiments, for the certain layer casting die, framework is carried out standardization, this has promoted the installation of laminate to the framework.

In alternative embodiment, be configured in the subarray that comprises two or more laminate on framework, wherein, will be arranged on supporting construction more than a subarray.

This array architecture can be made of any suitable material, for example has the intensity that is enough to the supporting layer casting die.For example, array architecture can be made by plastics, timber or metal, for example aluminium or galvanized steel.

The bearing strength of laminate and finished product array must satisfy the expection need for environment, loads or from the loading of blast such as snow.The typical load bearing requirements that is used for laminate is every square feet approximately 50 pounds.In various embodiments, the framework array also can tolerate the wind load of at least 60 pounds every square feet and reach 130mph or above fitful wind.By the framework that limits the laminate scope is provided for each solar panels laminate, and physically laminate is interconnected by for example connector with the framework coupling that will limit adjacent layer casting die scope, can strengthen the intensity of framework, and can the promoting layer casting die installation to the framework.This framework can also be made by any suitable material, comprises metal, timber or plastics.In certain embodiments, framework is extruded aluminum.

Make specific frame design and standardization array interconnect coupling that the tolerance of the bearing strength of increase can be provided.Exemplary design is provided in Fig. 1.PV array 10 comprises 12 laminate 12, and the electric connector in terminal box 14 is by electrical lead 16 electric coupling from terminal box 14.Each laminate 12 is by framework 18 limited ranges.Two vertical (as shown) cross members 20 are coupled to each laminate framework 18 with securing member 26 along wide framework dimension, and alternatively, with securing member 24, level (as shown) cross member 22 are coupled to vertical cross member 20.In certain embodiments, for example with the prebored hole that is used for securing member and cross member and the framework that pre-determines size, for the certain layer casting die, cross member and laminate framework are carried out standardization, thereby allow by with standardized way, laminate being installed to the Fast Construction that framework and cross member carry out array.The securing member that is used for these arrays can be any suitable type as known in the art, comprises nuts and bolt, screw, welding or fixture.Array in Fig. 1 also comprises for along central longitudinal axis I, array being fastened to the prebored hole 28 of supporting construction.In certain embodiments, cross member and framework comprise that also vision guide spare or recess are to provide directional cues or fit structure, to guarantee the suitable orientation of cross member and framework.

Use together with the solar panels laminate of any type that these designs can produce with the power with any capacity, for example at STC(Pm) under 100W, 500W or 1000W at least at least at least.In addition, these designs can be used for the PV array of any capacity, for example can produce at least 500W, 2kW, 5kW, 10kW or the PV array of 20kW at least at least at least at least.

Require the power of laminate to produce the interconnection of the grounding characteristics of the interconnection of characteristic and system the interconnection of a plurality of flaggy casting dies.Need system earth any to dissipate (i) to pass in time and occur leak (as result or the accidental damage of natural aging, mistake structure) and (ii) pass any foreign current (such as from any unexpected interconnection of electrical network supply power system or from those of thunderbolt generation) of system from the stray electrical current of laminate.In certain embodiments, earthing device is the framework cross member.In these embodiments, with earth lead, cross member is connected to ground.In other embodiments, cross member does not serve as ground connection.If insulating material is used for cross member, flaggy casting die framework that must each is independent is electrically interconnected to ground individually.

The solar cell that is used for these arrays can be made by any suitable material as known in the art, and for example cadmium telluride, copper indium, selenides/sulfide or GaAs or silicon, comprise crystalline silicon or amorphous silicon.

The solar panels laminate can have any configuration or make with any material as known in the art or method.In certain embodiments, the transparent material with for example glass or plastics covers each solar panels laminate.The solar panels laminate can also comprise the solar cell of any number, for example, and at least 10,25,50 or 100 solar cells.In certain embodiments, laminate comprises 60 solar cells (for example 6 row of 10 delegation).In addition, PV array or subarray can comprise the solar panels laminate of any number, for example at least 2, at least 4, at least 8 or at least 12 solar panels laminate.

In certain embodiments, the PV array is designed to as shelter.This type of PV array is configured to make rain and/or the light can not be by the zone to array.

In various embodiments, the electrical interconnection between the flaggy casting die is by the lead-in wire on terminal box as known in the art.In other embodiments, the electric connector of each solar panels laminate is from each laminate or to limit the edge of framework of each laminate scope outstanding, makes to insert in the electric connector of adjacent layer casting die by the electric connector plug that electric connector is forced together with each laminate.In in these embodiments some, connector is positioned such that by laminate being forced together and electric connector being forced together.This type of " plug and play " system has accelerated laminate is installed and is interconnected on array architecture, but is particularly only allowed single repetition interval in the situation that array architecture and plate framework accurately mate and place design.

Therefore, in certain embodiments, each solar panels laminate comprises the extruded aluminum framework that limits the laminate scope.In these embodiments, array architecture comprises and is attached to two cross members of the framework of each laminate along the first axle of each laminate at least at two some places of interconnection, each solar panels laminate can be at STC(Pm) under produce 200W at least, solar cell is made by crystalline silicon or amorphous silicon, each solar panels laminate is covered by glass, insulating lid and backing comprise the EVA laminate, each solar panels laminate comprises at least 60 solar cells, and the PV array comprises 12 laminate.

The supporting construction that is used for photovoltaic (PV) array also is provided together.Fig. 2 provides the diagram of exemplary embodiment.Supporting construction 30 comprises the first supporting member 32 of perpendicular and the second supporting member 32' of perpendicular, and wherein, each in the first supporting member 32 and the second supporting member 32' comprises upper end 34,34' and

lower end

36,36'.Each supporting member 32, the lower end 36 of 32', 36' are coupled to substrate 38,38', and wherein each substrate is arranged at, is attached to or buries in ground 46, floor, movable platform or construction element.Supporting construction 30 also comprises the Rotatable base 40 of crossing over the first vertical support 32 and the second vertical support 32', and Rotatable base is coupled to the clutch shaft bearing 42 at 34 places, upper end that are positioned at the first supporting member 32 and is positioned at the second bearing 42' at the 34' place, upper end of the second supporting member 32'.In these embodiments, Rotatable base 40 can be coupled to PV array or a plurality of solar panels laminate by rectangular tube or the piece 44 that is arranged on Rotatable base 40.In aspect these embodiment various, be provided with a plurality of rectangular tubes or piece 44 along Rotatable base.Rectangular tube or piece 44 can have any length along Rotatable base.In certain embodiments, rectangular tube or piece 44 are foursquare.

Can rectangular tube or piece 44 be arranged on Rotatable base 40 in any mode that is suitable for supporting PV array 10'.In certain embodiments, rectangular tube or piece 44 comprise the wide dimension wider than the diameter of Rotatable base, and in the situation that wide dimension is crossed over Rotatable base 40 is arranged on Rotatable base 40.Can for example use welding or nuts and bolt that rectangular tube or piece 44 are arranged on the top of Rotatable base 40.In other embodiments, rectangular tube or piece 44 are fully around Rotatable base 40.This type of rectangular tube or piece 44 can be installed by any way, for example by by the center of piece being drilled and insert Rotatable base around the fastening of Rotatable base circumference or welding before piece is in position.Rectangular tube or piece 44 can cover Rotatable base 40, and perhaps the summit of Rotatable base 40 and rectangular tube or piece 44 can be in same level, and continuous level is provided on the top.In various embodiments, particularly in the situation that the PV array that utilizes is above-mentioned PV array, at each tie point place to the cross member 28 of PV array 10, a plurality of rectangular tubes or piece 44 are set.In in these embodiments some, at approximately every 2.7 feet places, cross member 28 and rectangular tube or piece 44 are set.In other embodiments, with 44 pairings of rectangular tube or piece, make the rectangular tube of even number or piece 44 along Rotatable base 40.

Supporting construction can be arranged on any surface that is suitable for bearing support structure and PV array or in, include but not limited to roof, floor, such as movable platform or the ground of flat bed trailer.In the situation that supporting construction on the ground, can be arranged at it on ground or bury in ground.In the time of in burying ground, substrate enough must be buried (for example below frost line) deeply, have enough grapplings (for example, with in the hole of Concrete Filled), making the supporting construction with PV array is stable under environmental condition around.If array is arranged on building or other structures, use flange or other suitable load distribution connecting materials, according to the load bearing requirements and the standard that are used for suitable building condition, vertical support is connected to structure.In various embodiments, substrate will and reach 130mph or above fitful wind lower support structure under every square feet of 60 pounds of wind loads.

In certain embodiments, the substrate of each supporting member comprises ballast.As using in this article, ballast is the heavy type structure that is arranged at the bases of the supporting construction that the PV array for structure and mounted thereto provides support.Illustrate the exemplary supporting construction that ballast is housed with PV array in Fig. 3.Each supporting member 32, the substrate 38 of 32', 38' comprise

ballast

50,50'.In various embodiments, ballast 50,50' do not enter ground, perhaps do not enter the ground exceed 10 inches.

The supporting construction that ballast is housed with PV array is providing particularly useful in the unrealistic or impossible situation of the substrate that enters ground, for example be positioned in supporting construction and can not enter in lip-deep situation, for example exist therein on the ground that can not enter sill or the clay cap that enters landfill waste site be do not expect or forbidden capped landfill waste site on.Can also use the anchoring system that ballast is housed in building or structure installation system, wherein, the PV array is positioned on the top of this building on the supporter that ballast is housed that for good and all is not attached to building or structure or structure.

The supporting construction that ballast is housed can also be installed on the movable platform such as flat bed trailer.Have therein in emergency circumstances or for military affairs using of power failure, this type of mobile solar energy system subtend remote location provides power particularly useful.In alternative embodiment, can be by in the situation that be with or without ballast with at least one bolt in supporting member or otherwise be fixed in platform supporting construction is installed on movable platform.In these embodiments, can before or after being arranged at the PV array on Rotatable base, supporting construction be installed on movable platform.

Ballast preferably enough heavy and enough wide with provide enough support with the wind load of 60 pounds every square feet and reach 130mph or above fitful wind under keep having the stability of remainder of the supporting construction of PV array.In various embodiments, for enough supports are provided, ballast covers the area greater than 4 square feet.

Ballast can be made by any heavy material, for example comprises the material of cement (for example concrete) or metal.

The supporting construction that provides in this article can be the part of shelter, for example is used for covering or protect the human or animal to avoid drenching with rain or as the garage for vehicle.In these embodiments, rain and/or light can not pass through the PV array, perhaps with supporting construction with provide the roof of this protection integrated.In various embodiments, supporting construction also comprises forming the wall of hermetically-sealed construction, and is perhaps integrated with the building that wall is provided.

In the situation that supporting construction is the part of shelter, the PV array is preferably enough high, makes people or vehicle easily to search out below the PV array and shelters.Similarly, in certain embodiments, the upper end of each supporting member is enhanced at least 6 feet, at least 10 feet or at least 16 feet on ground, floor or construction element.

The supporting construction that provides in this article can be supported on any PV array as known in the art.In certain embodiments, the PV array of disposed thereon is in above-mentioned PV array one.

Rotatable base 40 can have and is suitable for being coupled to bearing and can supports (a plurality of) rectangular tube that is coupled to PV array or a plurality of solar panels laminate or any design of piece 44.In certain embodiments, Rotatable base 40 is cylindrical tube, for example coating steel pipe or aluminum pipe basically.Rotatable base can have any suitable length for the PV array of disposed thereon.In certain embodiments, Rotatable base is approximately 25 feet long.

Can come at each vertical support 32,32' upper support Rotatable base 40 with any bearing as known in the art.Suitable especially bearing is pillow block bearing (pillow block bearing) 42,42'.

Can also support Rotatable base 40 by the 3rd supporting member of perpendicular.In various embodiments, the 3rd supporting member comprises top and bottom, and this lower end is coupled to substrate and this substrate is arranged at, is attached to or bury in ground, floor or construction element.In these embodiments, Rotatable base is coupled to the 3rd bearing of the upper end that is positioned at the 3rd supporting member.

In other embodiments, this supporting construction comprises the 3rd vertical support and crosses over the second Rotatable base of the second vertical support and the 3rd vertical support, this second Rotatable base is coupled to the second bearing and the 3rd bearing, and the 3rd bearing is positioned at the upper end of the 3rd supporting member.Therefore, in these embodiments, two Rotatable bases and PV array are supported on three vertical support.In addition, similarly there be sharing of additional vertical support between Rotatable base, make and three Rotatable bases can be supported on four vertical support, four Rotatable bases can be supported on five vertical support etc.

In certain embodiments, supporting construction is fixed system, and namely the PV array is not mobile to follow the tracks of the daily movement of the sun in the daytime.In these embodiments, PV array and ground level or sensing south or northern in Southern Hemisphere sensing on the Northern Hemisphere.Figure 4 illustrates this type systematic, Fig. 4 shows the fixed system from the end-view of Rotatable base 40.Also show rectangular tube or piece 44.In these embodiments, PV array 10' points on the Northern Hemisphere south and points to the north (left side in Fig. 4) in the Southern Hemisphere.These fixed systems can comprise the one or more grappling supporters 48 that support the PV array with selected inclination angle alternatively.

In certain embodiments, fixed system for good and all is locked in the appropriate location with fixing inclination angle.In other embodiments, fixed system can carry out Periodic Rotating to mate more closely the seasonal inclination angle of the aerial sun in sky at noon.If for good and all be fixed on the appropriate location, system can have to ground a plurality of attachment points of (or system be connected to building or structure).If periodically adjust, system can be located to improve or an end of the horizontal Rotatable base of reduction so that the PV array is tilted with on the Northern Hemisphere south or in the Southern Hemisphere north more directly in the face of the sun.

In solar energy collecting system, for fixed structure, the tracking sun can cause dropping on the increase of remarkable increase, efficient therefore and the gross power generation of radiation in tracked lip-deep year.Therefore, in various embodiments, can make Rotatable base with respect to the first axle rotation along Rotatable base, wherein, this axle is substantially horizontal axle or becomes selected inclination angle with horizontal line.In these embodiments, the first axle is that north and south is pointed to basically, so the PV array can all follow on whole daytime the sun, i.e. west towards east and in the afternoon in the morning.

In in these embodiments some, can also adjust Rotatable base along the second axle (biaxial system) that is substantially perpendicular to the first axle.Can realize this type of adjustment to adjust Rotatable base along the second trunnion axis by at least one the upper end of improving or reducing with respect to ground, floor or construction element in the first supporting member or the second supporting member.This adjustment is used for guiding the PV array to follow the sun with respect to the southern horizon in the Northern Hemisphere and the northern horizon in the Southern Hemisphere in the Seasonal Movement of the sun.This dual-axis tracking system allows the PV module directly towards the sun, regardless of the daily movement of the sun and the seasonal variety in this mobile path.Yet the structure that is used for biaxial system is more complicated than uniaxiality tracking solar energy collecting structure, expensive and be easy to damage.

The replacement design of biaxial system is wherein Rotatable base to be fixed on and horizontal selected inclination angle (one-axis system).The uniaxiality tracking solar energy collecting structure represents the reasonable compromise between fixed system and cross-compound arrangement.That is to say, single shaft tracking structure is not in the situation that have do not expect complexity and the cost of double-axis tracking structure to realize than fixed structure the benefit that efficient increases.

Single shaft tracking structure makes the PV array move around single axle, and therefore is similar to the tracking of sun physical location any time.In certain embodiments, driving mechanism little by little makes the PV array rotation on whole daytime, from the face easting in morning to afternoon face the west to.The PV array is back to faces the east orientation.Single shaft tracking structure can be around with respect to level for the horizon of the latitude of this position or the axle rotation of tilting at a certain angle.The performance that the general realization of the single shaft tracking structure that tilts is enhanced for horizontal single shaft tracking structure is because they are placed to for sun's way the PV module array on an average closer to vertical direction.Yet, horizontal one-axis system improve performance be tilted at least in part single shaft tracking structure compare with system horizontal each other must be apart increase apart from offset because from the performance that can reduce in addition pitch system of covering of proximity structure.If the natural grade in this place tilts, as on hill, can make this problem of covering minimize or alleviate.

Single shaft and biaxial system also usually comprise one or more driving mechanisms, it makes supporting construction rotate continuously or on basis intermittently around one or more axles so that the PV module along with the sun by day during mobile stride across and along with sun's way aloft moved during 1 year and aims at towards the sun aloft.Be known in the art many these type of driving mechanisms.The example of useful drive unit is by the reversible motor of mechanical couplings to hydraulic arm or gear, its by mechanical couplings to Rotatable base.

This drive unit is configured to make any selected amount of the PV array rotation that is arranged on Rotatable base, and spacing requirement and power generation are taken into account.In certain embodiments, the PV array can be spent in each direction of rotation rotation 30 from the vertical plane that is formed by the first supporting member and the second supporting member at least.In other embodiments, the PV array can rotate at least 35 degree on each direction; In additional embodiment, the PV array can rotate at least 60 degree on each direction.

In certain embodiments, supporting construction also comprises for being adjusted on Rotatable base or the device in the orientation (aspect) of PV array at least one of vertical support body.Be useful when this type of is adjusted at installation system, the sedimentation with after the compensation installation system changes the inclination of an axle or fixed system so that array points to the sun more closely perhaps seasonally.Can utilize the as known in the art any device for the orientation of adjusting the PV array here.An exemplary means is to accept pad so that the installation surface that is used for bearing of vertical adjustment to be provided.Alternatively, this installs the horizontal adjustment that the surface also provides bearing.At least one that be used for to adjust other such devices in orientation of PV array and vertical support body or bearing is in aggregates.The providing of inner sleeve of the outer sleeve that bases stops and the bearing end that is attached to the supporter that is attached to horizontal rotating chassis is provided such device.Can for example adjust inner sleeve to revise the height of supporter with screw, latch or pad.

PV power generation factory is provided in this article.This power plant comprises a plurality of any above-mentioned supporting constructions and is arranged at PV array on the Rotatable base of each supporting construction.In the power plant, the substrate of described a plurality of supporting constructions is anchored or embeds wherein that the PV array is exposed in the zone of daylight.In in these embodiments some, the PV array is any above-mentioned PV array.In various other embodiment, if the PV power plant on the Northern Hemisphere, the PV array south tilts, if perhaps the PV power plant is in the Southern Hemisphere, it north tilts.In various embodiments, the PV array is movable, make its can be in the morning west towards east and in the afternoon.

In additional embodiment, in supporting construction some comprises be used to the drive unit that makes Rotatable base around horizontal rotational shaft at least.In in these embodiments some, each supporting construction comprises drive unit.In alternative embodiment, the Rotatable base of each supporting construction is engaged to the structural Rotatable base of adjacent supports, makes the drive unit on engagement the first supporting construction apply revolving force on the Rotatable base on the first supporting construction and on the structural Rotatable base of adjacent supports that the Rotatable base on this first supporting construction is engaged to.The example of useful drive unit is by the reversible motor of mechanical couplings to hydraulic arm or gear, its by mechanical couplings to Rotatable base.

In certain embodiments, each Rotatable base comprises the first end and the second end along the longitudinal rotating shaft of base, each supporting construction is adjacent to another supporting construction along the longitudinal rotating shaft of the Rotatable base of this each supporting construction, and the end of the Rotatable base of mutual immediate adjacent supports structure is engaged, and makes the drive unit in the engagement supporting construction apply revolving force on Rotatable base in adjacent being engaged of longitudinal rotating shaft along base.Make in the situation that Rotatable base is perfectly collimated the adjustment that does not need between latter end, can horizontal Rotatable base be coupled end-to-end by the use of mounting flange.Alternatively, can be connected latch or bolt with inner sleeve by member in order to be fixed on the appropriate location with the mode inner sleeve that in position will connect two end-to-end horizontal Rotatable bases that is fixed of interconnection by using.In the situation that needs or advise little compensation adjustment can be the inner sleeve design assembling universal joint assembly of just having described, it will be divided into two interconnecting parts that can rotate to sleeve on controlled basis in the design specification of universal joint assembly.Illustrate the example of those embodiment in Fig. 5.End-to-end horizontal Rotatable base 40 with PV array 10' of disposed thereon is engaged end-to-end by universal joint 54, makes engagement motor 52 make two horizontal Rotatable base 40 rotations.

If along the longitudinal the Rotatable base of rotating shaft along the longitudinal rotating shaft basically not in the isoplanar and along the longitudinal the end of the Rotatable base of the mutual immediate adjacent supports structure of rotating shaft by with gear, chain and sprocket and/or cable splice.

In other embodiments, each supporting construction is adjacent to another supporting construction, make the Rotatable base of each supporting construction basically be parallel to each other, and the Rotatable base of each supporting construction is engaged to the structural parallel Rotatable base of adjacent supports, makes the drive unit in the engagement supporting construction apply revolving force on the parallel Rotatable base that engages.Can interconnect with the Rotatable base that any device will walk abreast adjacent, for example gear, chain and sprocket and/or cable.Alternatively, parallel Rotatable base is reversed the docking of winding cable and closes, as in Fig. 6, wherein, Rotatable base 40 with PV array 10' of disposed thereon is reversed the winding cable and is engaged to adjacent pans to 56, makes engagement motor 52 make three whole horizontal Rotatable bases 40 rotations.The reverse-winding cable is adjusted thread 58 to adjust the tension force on cable to comprising.Adjust thread 58 the pair array 10' fine setting of location relative to each other also is provided.

The PV power plant that provides at this can comprise the supporting construction of any number, comprises at least 25, at least 100 or at least 500 supporting constructions.In addition, the power plant can produce the electricity of any amount, for example the electricity of 1MW at least.

Single shaft and double shaft supporting structure be misalignment slightly usually, makes the PV array and slightly differently points to towards the anticipated orientation of the sun.In addition, in some cases, the place exists and can perhaps introduce building or other barriers that covers on many flaggies casting die at some at the three unities.In addition, flaggy casting die itself can be on some orientation be introduced to the adjacent plies casting die and be covered, and this can depend in when hitting the flaggy casting die from the solar radiation of the sun one day or time and related angle in 1 year.Here provide and be used for by before mobile PV array and measure afterwards power stage and subsequently the PV array is adjusted to the position that wherein power stage is the highest and make from the optimized system and method for the power stage of PV array.Therefore, in certain embodiments, provide the system that comprises the PV array that is arranged on supporting construction, be provided with at least one solar panels laminate on described supporting construction.In this system, described solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells, earthing device, insulating lid and backing and electric connector, and described supporting construction comprises: the first supporting member of perpendicular, it comprises the first upper end and the first lower end, and described lower end is coupled to the first substrate; And be used for making PV around the device of axle rotation.Here, described axle is substantially horizontal axle or is in and becomes selected inclination angle with horizontal line.This system comprises that (a) is for preferably making the PV array measure before and afterwards the device of the power stage of PV array around axle a small amount of (for example less than 5 degree (for example 1,2,3 or 4 degree)) rotation on both direction; (b) be used for determining making the PV array around the power stage of the PV array before or after the axle rotation larger device whether; And the device that (c) is used for making the PV array rotation position that extremely wherein power stage is larger.For these systems, PV array and supporting construction can be as known in the art any, comprise above-mentioned any in those.

In certain embodiments, by be linked on function can make the PV array control around the computer chip collection of the driving mechanism of axle rotation be used to determine to make the PV array around the axle rotation less than the power stage of the PV array before or after 5 degree larger device and be used for making the PV array rotation to the device of the position that wherein power stage is larger whether.The computer chip collection can be moved with the chipset combination towards the sun of time durations in the daytime with making the PV array.In certain embodiments, the computer chip collection comprises time clock feature, depends on the default location function of time clock feature and the algorithm that depends on time clock feature, wherein, this test of heuristics at the substrate location place and make the PV array from substrate location along forward and inverse direction around the axle rotation power stage less than the PV array after 5 degree.Can move this algorithm when feasible, for example in the daytime time durations at least per hour once, in the daytime every at least 15 minutes of time durations or in the morning once, in the afternoon in once and at noon one hour once.In certain embodiments, computer chip collection storage is expected optimum position for follow-up operation from the result of each operation and priority of use result.

This system can comprise other functions of any number, for example optical sensor and will guide driving mechanism with in light sensors to making the PV array rotation to the algorithm of stowed position at the surround lighting below minimum value (for example at night or in the situation that under black clouds covers).This system can also comprise wind sensor (anemometer) and guide driving mechanism with in the situation that the wind speed that wind sensor detects over threshold value makes the PV array rotation to the algorithm of horizontal level.

In certain embodiments, this system is in the weather proof unit that comprises.In in these embodiments some, this unit is installed near driving mechanism.Fig. 7 is the diagram of a non-limiting example of native system.In the present embodiment, control cabinet 62 has by control the computer chip collection of the movement of array 10' to the wire connection 64 of motor 52.Both are installed in control cabinet 62 and motor 52 on vertical support 32.Motor 52 is coupled to Rotatable base 40 by travel mechanism 60.Travel mechanism 60 can be any this type of mechanism that is known in the art.Control cabinet 62 also is coupled to the first output lead 66, is guided by this first output lead 66 from the electricity output of array 10'.Computer chip collection in control cabinet 62 is measured the electricity output from the first output lead 66, and it out continues by the second output lead 68 from system.Embodiment shown in Fig. 7 also comprises the anemometer 70 that is coupled to control cabinet 62 by anemometer wire 72.

A kind of optimized method of power stage that makes from photovoltaic (PV) array also is provided, and wherein, the PV array is installed on supporting construction and comprises at least one solar panels laminate.Described solar panels laminate comprises a plurality of electric coupling solar cells, earthing device, insulating lid and backing, electric connector and is used for measurement from the device of the power stage of array, and described supporting construction comprises: the first supporting member of perpendicular, it comprises the first upper end and the first lower end, and described lower end is coupled to the first substrate; And be used for making PV around the device of axle rotation.Axle in these embodiment is substantially horizontal axle or is in and becomes selected inclination angle with horizontal line.The method comprises that (a) makes the PV array measure before and afterwards the power stage of PV array less than 5 degree (for example 1,2,3 or 4 degree) around the axle rotation; And (b) determine make the PV array whether larger less than the power stage of the PV array before or after 5 degree around axle rotation; And (c) make the PV array rotation to the larger position of power stage wherein.In these embodiments, the PV array is any above-mentioned PV array.In other embodiments, described supporting construction is any above-mentioned supporting construction.In additional embodiment, with just carrying out the method in above-described any system.

Fig. 8 is the flow chart of step that a non-limiting example of these methods of using the system shown in Fig. 7 is shown.In the present embodiment, at first come measuring wind and data are sent to control cabinet 62 with anemometer.Computer chip collection in control cabinet 62 determines that measured wind speed is whether more than max-thresholds.If this wind speed is more than threshold value, chipset guides motor 52 so that PV array 10' moves to horizontal level so that Wind effect minimizes.If wind speed is below threshold value, the computer chip collection in control cabinet 62 is measured the output from the array 10' of the first output lead 66.Then computer chip collection in control cabinet 62 determines output whether below minimum threshold, represents that the wherein electricity output of array makes the contingent level that is producing like that only micro-electricity during covering or mist at black clouds.If should export below minimum value, array moves to the memory location.If output is more than minimum threshold, the computer chip collection in control cabinet 62 make the PV array in one direction marginally (for example 2 °) move to the first shift position, and measure electricity output, then make the PV array in the opposite direction from the home position marginally (for example 2 °) mobile (namely, from the first shift position 4 °), and measure electricity output on this second shift position.Then the computer chip collection determines which in three positions (home position, the first shift position or the second shift position) has the highest output, then guides motor 52 to make array move to this position.In certain embodiments, record also utilizes best the setting in the determining of following original array position, namely have the position that the highest electricity is exported.

The computer program instructions that is used for the execution disclosed embodiment can be stored in computer-readable medium, it can guide computer or other programmable data processing device to move with ad hoc fashion, the command device of the function that makes the instruction that is stored in computer-readable medium produce to realize appointment in flow chart/action.Computer program instructions can also be loaded on data processing equipment to impel and carry out the sequence of operations step to produce the computer realization process on data handling system, make the process of the function of appointment in the instruction of carrying out on data handling system is provided for realizing one or more frames at flow chart and/or block diagram/action.

The algorithm that relates to the embodiment general execution implementation method embodiment of computer software and hardware (comprising chipset).Algorithm here and usually be contemplated into the self-congruent sequence of steps that causes expected result.This step is those of physical operations of requirement physical quantity.Usually, although optional, this tittle takes to be stored, transmits, makes up, the form of the electrical or magnetic signal of operation relatively and otherwise.It is easily that verified main reason for public purpose sometimes is called position, value, element, symbol, character, item, number etc. with these signals.Yet what should remember is that all these and similar terms will be associated with suitable physical quantity and be only the label that facilitates that puts on this tittle.Unless specifically describe in addition, it will be appreciated that and spread all over the disclosure, the use of terms such as " determining ", " guide " refers to action and the process of computer system or similar electronic computing device, and its data to the physics in the RS that is expressed as computer system (electronics) amount operate and be transformed into other data that similarly are expressed as the physical quantity in computer system memory or register or other this type of information storages, transmission or display device.

Can realize various embodiment by means of computer realization process or method (also referred to as program or routine), it can be implemented with any computer language, described computer language comprises C#, C/C++, Fortran, COBOL, PASCAL, assembler language, markup language (such as HTML, SGML, XML, VoXML) etc. in hard-core situation, and such as the object oriented environment of Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA), Java etc.Yet usually, the above-mentioned term intention of all that use in this article contains any logic step series of carrying out to realize given purpose by sequence.

Can realize embodiment in order to the equipment of carrying out described operation herein.This equipment can distinguishingly be constructed for desired purpose, perhaps can comprise the all-purpose computer that the computer program that is stored in computer optionally activates or reshuffles.This type of computer program can be stored in computer-readable recording medium, such as, but not limited to the dish of any type, comprise floppy disk, CD, CD-ROM and magneto optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (ram), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic or light-card or be suitable for the store electrons instruction and each is coupled to the medium of any type of computer system bus.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize immediately is can be with implementing instruction content of the present disclosure except above-mentioned computer system configurations those, comprise portable equipment, multicomputer system, based on microprocessor or programmable consumer electronics device, DSP device, network PC, minicom, host computer etc., and in the distributed computing environment (DCE) of being executed the task by the teleprocessing equipment that is linked by communication network therein.

According to the consideration of disclosed specification of the present invention or enforcement in this article, other embodiment in claim scope in this article will be apparent for a person skilled in the art.Intention is only specification to be considered as exemplary, indicates scope and spirit of the present invention by claim.

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In view of foregoing, what will see is realized a plurality of advantage of the present invention and obtained other advantages.

Owing to can realize various modifications without departing from the scope of the invention in said method and composition, thus intention be should be with illustrative but not restrictive, sense explain and comprise in the above description and all themes illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

All lists of references of quoting in this manual are by incorporated herein by reference.The discussion of list of references herein only is intended to summarize the deduction of being undertaken by the author and does not make the license that any list of references forms prior art.The applicant keeps the right that accuracy and the correlation of institute's incorporated by reference document are raised an objection.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic (PV) array comprising:

array architecture; and

a plurality of electrically coupled solar panel laminates coupled to the array frame, each solar panel laminate comprising:

a plurality of electrically coupled solar cells;

G;

insulating covers and backings; and

electrical connector,

Wherein the PV array can be mounted as a unit to a support structure to generate electricity when sunlight strikes the mounted photovoltaic array.

2. The PV array of claim 1, wherein said array framework is metal.

3. The PV array of claim 1, wherein each solar panel laminate further comprises a frame bounding said laminate, the frame including a first axis and a second axis.

4. The PV array of claim 3, wherein said frame imparts a design strength of at least 50 pounds per square foot to said solar panel laminate.

5. The PV array of claim 3, wherein said frame is extruded aluminum.

6. The PV array of claim 3, wherein the array frame comprises a plurality of cross members, wherein each cross member is bonded to a frame of a plurality of laminates.

7. The PV array of claim 6, wherein said cross members are prefabricated to match the frame of said solar panel laminate such that said laminate is coupled to said solar panel laminate in a pre-designed, repeatable orientation. Said cross member, wherein there is a pre-designed repeatable spacing between solar panel laminates.

8. The PV array of claim 7, wherein said cross member is pre-fabricated with pre-drilled holes in the frame of said cross member and said solar panel laminate such that by aligning said pre-drilled holes and securing A piece joins the cross member to the frame to couple the laminate.

9. The PV array of claim 8, wherein the fasteners are clamps, welds, screws or bolts.

10. The PV array of claim 6, wherein the cross members and frames further comprise visual guides or notches to provide orientation cues or cooperating structures to ensure proper orientation of the cross members and frames.

11. The PV array of claim 6, comprising two cross members coupled to the frame of each laminate at no less than two points of interconnection along the first axis of each laminate.

12. The PV array of claim 1, wherein the design strength of the array is capable of withstanding wind loads of at least 60 pounds per square foot and wind gusts up to 130 mph.

13. The PV array of claim 1, wherein the design strength of the array is capable of withstanding a static load of at least 60 pounds per square foot.

14. The PV array of claim 1, wherein each solar panel laminate is capable of generating at least 100W at STC(Pm).

15. The PV array of claim 1, wherein said PV array is capable of generating at least 500W.

16. The PV array of claim 1, wherein said PV array is capable of generating at least 20 kW.

17. The PV array of claim 6, wherein at least some of said cross members are electrically conductive.

18. The PV array of claim 6, wherein at least one grounding means is a cross member.

19. The PV array of claim 6, wherein said grounding means is not a cross member.

20. The PV array of claim 1 wherein said solar cells are made of cadmium telluride, copper indium, selenide/sulfide, or gallium arsenide.

21. The PV array of claim 1 wherein said solar cells are made of silicon.

22. The PV array of claim 22, wherein said silicon is crystalline silicon or amorphous silicon.

23. The PV array of claim 1, wherein each solar panel laminate is covered by a transparent material.

24. The PV array of claim 23, wherein said transparent material is glass.

25. The PV array of claim 1, wherein each solar panel laminate comprises at least 10 solar cells.

26. The PV array of claim 1 comprising at least 2 solar panel laminates.

27. The PV array of claim 1, wherein rain cannot pass through the PV array.

28. The PV array of claim 1, wherein light cannot pass through the PV array.

29. The PV array of claim 1 , wherein said solar panel laminates are electrically coupled via electrical connectors on or on a surface proximate to said laminates, wherein said electrical connectors are the leads from the junction box.

30. The PV array of claim 1 , wherein the electrical connectors of each solar panel laminate protrude from an edge of each laminate or a frame bounding each laminate such that the electrical connectors can be Together, the electrical connectors of each laminate are plugged into the electrical connectors of adjacent laminates.

31. The PV array of claim 30, wherein the electrical connectors are coupled by pressing the laminates together.

32. A solar panel laminate comprising:

a plurality of electrically coupled solar cells;

G;

insulating covers and backings; and

electrical connector,

Wherein, a solar panel laminate can be electrically coupled to an adjacent laminate by means of an electrical connector disposed on, in, or adjacent to the laminate or frame bounding the laminate such that the electrical connector can be pressed together or in close proximity to each other to couple the electrical connectors of a laminate to the electrical connectors of an adjacent laminate.

33. A support structure for a photovoltaic (PV) array, the support structure comprising:

a substantially vertical first support member and a substantially vertical second support member, wherein each of the first and second support members includes an upper end and a lower end, the lower end is coupled to a base and the base is placed on; attached to; or buried in the ground, floor or building element; and

a rotatable base spanning the first and second vertical support members, the rotatable base being coupled to a first bearing at an upper end of the first support member and a bearing at an upper end of the second support member second bearing,

wherein the rotatable mount is capable of being coupled to a PV array or a plurality of solar panel laminates, and

Wherein the PV array or plurality of solar panel laminates are coupled to the rotatable base by rectangular tubes or blocks disposed on the rotatable base.

34. The support structure of claim 33, further comprising a PV array disposed on the rotatable base.

35. The support structure of claim 33, wherein said rectangular tube or block includes a width dimension that is wider than a diameter of said rotatable base, and is disposed on said rotatable base with the width dimension spanning said rotatable base. on the rotatable base described above.

36. The support structure of claim 34, wherein the support structure is placed on or buried in the ground.

37. The support structure of claim 36, wherein the base of each support member includes ballast having sufficient weight and diameter to withstand said support structure under wind loads of 60 pounds per square foot and gusts up to 130 mph. hosts the PV array.

38. The support structure of claim 37, wherein the ballast does not enter the ground.

39. The support structure of claim 37, wherein the ballast does not penetrate the ground more than 10 inches.

40. The PV array of claim 1 comprising at least 12 solar panel laminates.

41. The support structure of claim 38, wherein the ballast covers an area greater than 4 square feet.

42. The support structure of claim 36, wherein the ballast comprises cement or concrete.

43. The support structure of claim 34, wherein rain cannot pass through the PV array.

44. The support structure of claim 43, further comprising walls to form an enclosed structure.

45. The support structure of claim 34, wherein light cannot pass through the PV array.

46. The support structure of claim 43, wherein the upper end of each support member is raised at least 6 feet above the ground, floor or building element.

47. The support structure of claim 43, wherein the upper end of each support member is raised at least 10 feet above the ground, floor or building element.

48. The support structure of claim 43, wherein the upper end of each support member is raised at least 16 feet above the ground, floor or building element.

49. The support structure of claim 34, wherein the PV array is the PV array of any one of claims 1-32.

50. The support structure of claim 33, wherein said rotatable base is a substantially cylindrical tube.

51. The support structure of claim 50, wherein the rotatable base is a galvanized or aluminum tube.

52. The support structure of claim 33, wherein said rotatable base is about 25 feet long.

53. The support structure of claim 33 capable of supporting a PV array under wind loads of at least 60 pounds per square foot and wind gusts up to 130 mph.

54. The support structure of claim 33, further comprising:

a substantially vertical third support member comprising an upper end and a lower end, the lower end being coupled to a base and the base being disposed on the ground, floor or building element; attached to the ground, floor or building element or Buried into the ground, floors or building elements; and

A rotatable base is coupled to a third bearing at the upper end of the third support member.

55. The support structure of claim 33, further comprising:

a substantially vertical third support member including an upper end and a lower end coupled to the base;

A second rotatable base spanning the second vertical support member and a third vertical support member, the second rotatable base being coupled to a second bearing and a third bearing located on the third support at the top of the component.

56. The support structure of claim 50, wherein each bearing is a pillow block bearing.

57. The support structure of claim 33, wherein said rotatable base is capable of rotating relative to a first axis along said rotatable base, wherein the axis is a substantially horizontal axis or at a selected distance from horizontal. Tilt angle.

58. The support structure of claim 50, wherein the rotatable mount is adjustable along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

59. The support structure of claim 58, wherein the upper end of at least one of the first support member and the second support member can be raised or lowered relative to the ground, floor or building element to adjust the support structure along a second horizontal axis. Swivel base.

60. The support structure of claim 57, wherein said rotatable base is fixed at a selected angle of inclination from horizontal.

61. The support structure of claim 57, further comprising a PV array disposed on said rotatable base and attached to a bearing.

62. The support structure of claim 34, further comprising drive means for rotating said rotatable base about a first axis, wherein said first axis is substantially horizontal or at a selected angle of inclination from horizontal.

63. The support structure of claim 62, wherein the first axis is substantially horizontal.

64. The support structure of claim 62, wherein the drive means rotates the PV array disposed on the rotatable base from a vertical plane formed by the first support member and the second support member along each direction of rotation by at least 30 degrees.

65. The support structure of claim 61, wherein the drive means comprises a hydraulic arm or gear coupled to a rotatable base.

66. The support structure of claim 65, wherein the hydraulic arm or gear is mechanically coupled to an electric motor.

67. The support structure of claim 33, wherein,

The rotatable base is approximately 25 feet long of extruded aluminum or galvanized steel round tubing;

wherein said rotatable base comprises a plane on which a PV array can be mounted,

The support structure also includes a PV array disposed on the plane of the rotatable base.

68. The support structure of claim 67, further comprising drive means comprising a reversible electric motor mechanically coupled to a hydraulic arm or gear mechanically coupled to said rotatable base, wherein said drive means Ability to rotate the PV array at least 30 degrees from horizontal in each direction.

69. The support structure of claim 33, further comprising means for adjusting the orientation of the PV array on at least one of said rotatable mount or on a vertical support.

70. The support structure of claim 69, wherein the means for adjusting the orientation of the PV array is a mounting surface for a bearing that accepts shims to provide vertical adjustment and horizontal movement for horizontal adjustment.

71. The support structure of claim 69, wherein the means for adjusting the orientation of the PV array is integral with at least one of the vertical support or the bearing.

72. The support structure of claim 60, wherein the substrate is anchored or buried in an area where the PV array is exposed to sunlight such that rotating the rotatable base moves the PV array to face substantially east-west direction.

73. The support structure of claim 33, wherein,

said bearing is a pillow block bearing;

The rotatable base is approximately 25 feet long of aluminum or galvanized round tubing; and

The support structure also includes:

drive means for rotating said rotatable base about a first substantially horizontal axis or at a selected inclination angle to the horizontal,

The drive means comprises a hydraulic arm or gear coupled to a rotatable base, the hydraulic arm or gear being mechanically coupled to an electric motor,

Wherein said drive means is capable of rotating said rotatable base at least 30 degrees from horizontal in each direction.

74. A support structure for a photovoltaic (PV) array, the support structure comprising:

a substantially vertical first support member including a first upper end and a first lower end coupled to the first base,

Wherein, the base of the support member includes a first ballast.

75. The support structure of claim 74, wherein the first ballast is of sufficient weight and size to carry and maintain the PV array on the support structure under wind loads of 60 pounds per square foot and gusts up to 130 mph.

76. The support structure of claim 74, wherein said ballast covers an area greater than 4 square feet.

77. The support structure of claim 74, wherein the ballast comprises cement.

78. The support structure of claim 74, wherein the support structure is positioned on the ground and the base does not enter the ground.

79. The support structure of claim 74, wherein said support structure is positioned on the ground and said base does not enter the ground more than 10 inches.

80. The support structure of claim 74, further comprising:

a second support member including a second upper end and a second lower end coupled to a second base,

a rotatable base spanning the first vertical support member and the second vertical support member, the rotatable base being coupled to a first bearing at an upper end of the first support member and a second bearing at an upper end of the second support member ,

Wherein, the base of the second support member includes a second ballast.

81. The support structure of claim 80, wherein said first ballast and second ballast together are of sufficient weight and size to withstand a support structure under wind loads of 60 pounds per square foot and wind gusts up to 130 mph. on which hosts and maintains the PV array.

82. The support structure of claim 80, further comprising a third support member comprising a third upper end and a third lower end, the third lower end being coupled to a third base,

wherein the rotatable base is coupled to a third bearing at the upper end of the third support member,

Wherein, the base of the third support member includes a third ballast.

83. A photovoltaic (PV) electric power plant comprising:

The support structure of any one of claims 33-82; and

PV arrays mounted on rotatable bases of each support structure,

Wherein the bases of the plurality of support structures are anchored, stabilized with ballast or buried into areas where the PV array is exposed to sunlight.

84. The PV power plant of claim 83, wherein said PV array is the PV array of any one of claims 1-31.

85. The PV plant of claim 83, wherein the PV array is tilted to the south if the PV plant is in the northern hemisphere, or the PV array is tilted to the north if the PV plant is in the southern hemisphere.

86. The PV power plant of claim 83, wherein said PV array is movable such that it faces east in the morning and west in the afternoon.

87. The PV power plant of claim 83, wherein at least one of the first and second support members of each support structure includes means for raising or lowering said support member relative to the ground, floor, or building element. The upper end is a mechanism for adjusting the orientation of the PV array in the north-south direction.

88. The PV power plant of claim 83, wherein the PV array is fixed in a substantially horizontal position in a north-south direction and is rotatable such that it faces east in the morning and west in the afternoon.

89. The PV power plant of claim 83, wherein at least some of said support structures include drive means for rotating the rotatable mount about a horizontal axis.

90. The PV power plant of claim 89, wherein the rotatable base of each support structure is joined to the rotatable base of an adjacent support structure such that the drive means on the first support structure engages the A rotational force is exerted on the rotatable base and on the rotatable base on the adjacent support structure to which the rotatable base on the first support structure is engaged.

91. The PV power plant of claim 90, wherein,

each rotatable base includes a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis of rotation of the base,

each support structure is adjacent to the other support structure along the longitudinal axis of rotation of the rotatable base of each support structure, and

The ends of the rotatable bases of mutually closest adjacent support structures are engaged such that a drive on one of the engaging support structures exerts a rotational force on the adjacent engaged rotatable bases along the base's longitudinal axis of rotation.

92. The PV power plant of claim 91, wherein rotatable bases along the longitudinal axis of rotation are in substantially the same plane along the longitudinal axis of rotation, and rotatable bases of adjacent support structures that are closest to each other along the longitudinal axis of rotation The ends of the base are joined by universal joints.

93. The PV power plant of claim 91, wherein rotatable mounts along the longitudinal axis of rotation are not in substantially the same plane along the longitudinal axis of rotation, and rotatable bases of adjacent support structures that are closest to each other along the longitudinal axis of rotation The ends of the base are joined with gears, chains and sprockets and/or cables.

94. The PV power plant of claim 90, wherein,

each support structure is adjacent to another support structure such that the rotatable bases of each support structure are substantially parallel to each other, and

The rotatable base of each support structure is joined to a parallel rotatable base on an adjacent support structure such that drive means on one of the engaging support structures exerts a rotational force on the parallel engaged rotatable base.

95. The PV power plant of claim 94, wherein said parallel rotatable mounts are engaged by pairs of oppositely wound cables.

96. The PV power plant of claim 95, wherein said pair of oppositely wound cables further comprises an adjustment turnbuckle.

97. A photovoltaic (PV) electric power plant comprising:

The support structure of claim 62, wherein,

the base of the plurality of support structures is anchored or buried into an area where the PV array is exposed to sunlight; and

The PV array is fixed in a substantially horizontal position in the north-south direction and is movable such that it can face east in the morning and west in the afternoon.

98. The PV power plant of claim 97, wherein,

(a) each rotatable base includes two ends along the longitudinal axis of rotation of the base,

ends of the rotatable bases of mutually closest adjacent support structures are engaged such that rotating the rotatable base of one of the support structures exerts a rotational force on adjacent engaged rotatable bases along the base's longitudinal axis of rotation; as well as

(b) each support structure is adjacent to another support structure such that the rotatable bases of each support structure are parallel to each other, and

The rotatable base of each support structure is joined to a parallel rotatable base on an adjacent support structure such that rotating the rotatable base on one of the support structures exerts a rotational force on the parallel joined rotatable bases.

99. The PV power plant of claim 98, wherein,

ends of the rotatable mounts of adjacent support structures that are closest to each other along the longitudinal axis of rotation are gimbaled with adjacent support structures along the longitudinal axis of rotation in substantially the same plane along the longitudinal axis of rotation, or engaging with gears, chains and sprockets and/or cables where adjacent support structures along the longitudinal axis of rotation are not in substantially the same plane along the longitudinal axis of rotation; and

The parallel rotatable mounts are engaged by pairs of oppositely wound cables.

100. The PV power plant of claim 99, wherein said pair of cables further comprises an adjustment turnbuckle.

101. The PV power plant of claim 97, further comprising at least one drive that rotates the rotatable base about a horizontal axis such that all PV arrays face east in the morning and face west in the afternoon.

102. The PV power plant of claim 97, comprising at least 25 support structures.

103. The PV power plant of claim 97, capable of generating at least 1 MW of electricity.

104. A system for optimizing power output from a photovoltaic (PV) array mounted on a support structure and comprising at least one solar panel laminate,

The solar panel laminate consists of:

a plurality of electrically coupled solar cells;

G;

insulating covers and backings; and

electrical connector,

And the support structure includes:

a substantially vertical first support member including a first upper end and a first lower end coupled to the first base; and

means for rotating the PV about an axis, wherein said axis is a substantially horizontal axis or is at a selected angle of inclination from the horizontal,

The system includes:

means for measuring the power output of a PV array before and after rotating the PV array about an axis by less than 5 degrees;

means for determining whether the power output of the PV array is greater before or after rotating the PV array about an axis by less than 5 degrees; and

Means for rotating a PV array to a position where the power output is greater.

105. The system of claim 104, wherein the PV array is the PV array of any one of claims 1-31.

106. The system of claim 104, wherein the support structure is the support structure of any of claims 33-82.

107. The system of claim 104, wherein a computer chip set functionally linked to a drive mechanism capable of rotating the PV array about the axis is controlled to determine whether to rotate the PV array about the axis by less than 5 degrees or The power output of the subsequent PV array is greater and the means for rotating the PV array to a position where the power output is greater.

108. The system of claim 107, wherein the computer chipset includes a clock function, a default location function that is dependent on the clock function, and an algorithm that is dependent on the clock function, wherein the algorithm tests at the substrate location and when the PV array is moved from The power output of the PV array after the substrate position has been rotated less than 5 degrees about the axis in the forward and reverse directions.

109. The system of claim 107, wherein the computer chipset stores results from each run and uses the results to predict optimal positions for subsequent runs.

110. The system of claim 107, wherein the algorithm is run at least once an hour during daylight hours.

111. The system of claim 107, wherein the algorithm runs at least every 15 minutes during daylight hours.

112. The system of claim 107, wherein the algorithm is run at least once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once within an hour at noon.

113. The system of claim 107, further comprising an algorithm for the light sensor and index drive mechanism to rotate the PV array to the stowed position if the light sensor detects ambient light below a minimum.

114. The system of claim 107, further comprising a wind sensor and an algorithm directing the drive mechanism to rotate the PV array to a horizontal position if the wind sensor detects a wind speed exceeding a threshold.

115. A method of optimizing power output from a photovoltaic (PV) array mounted on a support structure and comprising at least one solar panel laminate,

The solar panel laminate consists of:

a plurality of electrically coupled solar cells;

G;

Insulating covers and backings;

electrical connectors; and

means for measuring the power output from the array,

And the support structure includes:

The methods include:

measuring the power output of the PV array before and after rotating the PV array about its axis less than 5 degrees;

determining whether the power output of the PV array is greater before or after rotating the PV array about its axis less than 5 degrees; and

Rotate the PV array to a position where the power output is greater.

116. The method of claim 115, wherein the PV array is the PV array of any one of claims 1-31.

117. The method of claim 115, wherein the support structure is the support structure of any of claims 33-82.

118. The method of claim 117, wherein the method is performed using the system of any of claims 104-114.

119. The method of claim 118, wherein the computer chipset stores results from each run and uses the results to predict optimal positions for subsequent runs.

120. The support structure of claim 33 mounted on a movable platform.

121. The support structure of claim 120, further comprising a PV array disposed on a rotatable base.

122. The support structure of claim 120, wherein the base of each support member includes ballast having sufficient weight and diameter to bear on the support structure under wind loads of 60 pounds per square foot and gusts up to 130 mph PV array.

123. The support structure of claim 120, wherein at least one of said support members is secured to said platform.

124. A method for providing solar power to a remote location, the method comprising mounting the support structure of claim 34 on a mobile platform and transporting the mobile platform to the remote location.